Organically Bound – Wetlands House by Wolveridge Architects

Through a regenerative transformation, Wetlands House is converted into a functional home with a natural water landscape, anchoring the dwelling in place. Wolveridge Architects approaches the project with sensitivity to the surroundings, crafting a resilient residence that embraces natural materials and expansive openings, seamlessly connecting the design with the environmental elements.

Situated in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Wetlands House is the result of an engaged client wanting their home to have a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape. Replacing an existing residence, sustainability guides every aspect of the new design, integrating key functional and support systems for a light environmental footprint. A pivotal moment also occurred with the conversion of a non-permeable tennis court into an open wetland. The project celebrates both built and natural elements, embracing a biodiversity-centric approach to naturally cool and temper the home. By introducing native plantings, Wolveridge Architects revives the site, attracting a wealth of wildlife.

The project celebrates both built and natural elements, embracing a biodiversity-centric approach to naturally cool and temper the home.

Wanting to replace an ageing farmhouse structure, the owner was initially drawn to the site with the intention of establishing a more permanent residence, though with minimal environmental impact. Wetlands House is distinguished from the area’s typical coastal responses and, instead, emerges organically from the natural surroundings. As a result, the integration of external energy sources, optimal sun exposure and temperature control ensures the home supports climatic comfort year-round.

The owners wanted the design to have a functional purpose beyond mere aesthetics. Creating a multi-level residence on a limited budget also required efficiency, utilising durable materials that align with the broader vision for the house and site. With a dedicated team eager to explore the potential of a sensitively designed residence, the resulting home seamlessly integrates with the environment, offering numerous opportunities for the interior to connect with the natural surrounds.

Wetlands House is distinguished from the area’s typical coastal responses and, instead, emerges organically from the natural surroundings.

Through experimental and inclusive methods, Wolveridge Architects skilfully merges function, sustainability, form and nature in Wetlands House. The outcome is a residence intricately woven into its landscape.